The forum discussion centers on the emotional struggles of a second-year mechanical engineering student grappling with the challenges of physics, particularly in dynamics. The student expresses feelings of worthlessness and burnout, questioning their passion for STEM fields. Contributors emphasize the importance of seeking support, understanding the academic pressures, and recognizing that many students experience similar challenges. They suggest that the feelings of inadequacy may stem from the transition to more difficult coursework and the competitive nature of university life.
PREREQUISITESThis discussion is beneficial for engineering students, academic advisors, mental health professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the emotional challenges faced by students in rigorous STEM programs.
That’s the dip.Pipsqueakalchemist said:Yea I heard about the dip before. It’s just for some reason the idea of studying and working seems so unappealing to me right now. I used to be a really hard working student but now I just don’t have any drive to work. I still want to stay in my major but my work ethic is just non existent at this point. I often think to my self that I wish everything would be easy for me and that I wouldn’t have to work to learn and contribute to science which I know isn’t realistic and a very dumb view but it’s how I kinda feel right now.
Trust me, it's not just you. I had the same feelings in grad school after getting my butt handed to me by a toxic research group. Don't beat yourself up over it, and try to give yourself the opportunity to recover. It might take longer than you'd like. If you can, take it easier and/or fewer classes for a semester or two. If your circumstances allow it, taking an extra semester isn't the end of the world.Pipsqueakalchemist said:It’s just for some reason the idea of studying and working seems so unappealing to me right now. I used to be a really hard working student but now I just don’t have any drive to work. I still want to stay in my major but my work ethic is just non existent at this point.